Berlin, September 24th—Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC), met here today with Friedrich Merz, Chairman of Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Chairman of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group in the Bundestag.

Liu said since the establishment of relations between the CPC and the CDU, the relationship between the two Parties has continued to develop thanks to the joint efforts of several generations of leaders. Against the backdrop of profound and complex changes in the current international situation, it is necessary for the political parties of China and Germany to strengthen exchanges and dialogues. This morning, the 13th Party Dialogue between the two Parties was successfully held. The two sides had candid and in-depth exchanges on China-Germany relations and international and regional issues of common concern, and deepened mutual understanding. The Chinese side is willing to work with the German side to inject more wisdom and strength of political parties into the efforts in deepening the all-round strategic partnership between China and Germany.

Merz said, China has made tremendous achievements since the reform and opening up. In the past 10 years, in particular, China has constantly optimized its economic structure and improved its competitiveness. The German side is willing to strengthen cooperation with the Chinese side in various fields and find ways to resolve differences through equal dialogue. The CDU/CSU attaches great importance to its relationship with the CPC and is very pleased to successfully hold the 13th party dialogue with the CPC. Both Germany and China should make good use of the platform to strengthen exchanges and dialogue.

Johann Wadephul and Jens Spahn, Vice Chairmen of CDU/CSU Parliamentary Group in the German Bundestag, and others were present.